TNAG-1938-FCO40-2764-Future-of-Hong-Kong-defence-and-public-order-1989 — Page 104

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basis of a continuing requirement for 3 PC at least until MARPOL had all 5 new

SC launches operational and was ready to fulfil the RN's deep water anti-II role

(planned for 1991). As at Jan 89, HKG maintained that there are no grounds for

concern regarding the timescale for the expansion of the MARPOL fleet. The HKG

stated that they were now able to deploy 4 SC launches, but that one additional

and 2 replacement SC launches still remained to be delivered (timescales not

defined). They advised that maintenance support for MARPOL was "the significant

problem" but that measures were in hand to address this. Currently, therefore,

1991 remains the planning date for transfer of the RN's anti-II role to MARPOL.

It should be noted, however, that CDS 7/87 emphasised there is no requirement to

take a decision until 1990 on the future disposal of the 3 PC remaining in Hong

Kong. This approach may change in the light of the study into the future RN

presence (discussed at paragraph 35) but there is currently provision in LTC

assumptions for retention of the PC until Mar 1992.

34.

-

Given the uncertainty over the precise timing of MARPOL's future acceptance

of SC launches, and the fact that the HKG have yet to submit a firm statement of

requirement concerning the extension of the afloat naval presence to 1997 (but

note paragraph 45), there is as yet no case for advancing the timescale for

withdrawal of the 3 remaining HKPC which remains 'during or after, but not

earlier than, 1991'. However, their pro-rata reduction and overall capability

- will continue to be assessed in relation to the perceived requirements for

military presence at sea, and in relation to the introduction of MARPOL replace-

ment assets; these aspects will be addressed as part of the study discussed in

paragraphs 35-38.

35. Study of the Future RN Presence in Hong Kong

-

-

Background. There have

been indications during 1988 that retention, until the final handover date, of

ROW 113 (HONG)

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